Walsall community backs the gift donation station

In December the Saddlers Centre opted in to work with Free Radio’s Mission Christmas campaign, to collect gifts for children in the region who might not receive a present on Christmas Day. The campaign has run for many years and has been an amazing success story.

A donation station was set up by the magical post box and winter snow scene in the Saddlers Centre, for shoppers to drop off a gift for this special cause. An appeal was issued via social media and posters in the Centre for the community to give just one small, new book, game or toy when conducting their Christmas shopping in Walsall.

There was an amazing response with over 150 gifts donated, from hand knitted soft toys, to books and a whole host of toys and games.   The Saddlers Team delivered the bags to the Mission Christmas headquarters before Christmas, which collectively added up to over 16,000 children receiving a present from Santa this Christmas.

Mel Glasby, Centre Manager commented;

“A big thank you to all the kind people who took the time to give a gift during this busy Christmas period.  The campaign gives everyone the opportunity to stop and think about others less fortunate at Christmas. Our local community certainly contributed to Mission Christmas this year and spread some festive cheer.  Thanks again for your generosity!”